CHRIS HUGHTON believes his young Newcastle United side can use Sir Bobby Robson’s emotional send-off as an inspiration to make progress in the Carling Cup tonight.

The caretaker boss names a squad with plenty of fringe players involved, with Fabricio Coloccini, Andy Carroll and Jose Enrique all rested.

Hughton, along with his Toon players, were present at Durham Cathedral for the tearful memorial service to celebrate the life of Sir Bobby as some of football’s biggest names paid tribute to the former England and United manager.

And Hughton hopes the service can help spur his team to victory, with United followers looking for a similar result to the last visit to London Road when Shearer and Robson helped pull off a 4-2 win over Peterborough.

Hughton told the Chronicle today: “It was wonderful to see the number of people from the football world there – it was inspirational, and a wonderful setting.

“The players were honoured to be able to attend.

“It would be lovely if we can carry that inspiration into tonight’s game.”

Hughton is likely to start with Hungarian youth international defender Tamas Kadar tonight, and there could also be a chance for ex-Plymouth Argyle trainee Ben Tozer at the back.

United are more than certain to start with Tim Krul in goal, while Nile Ranger will return to the starting XI after a stint on the bench in the last two games.

Ryan Donaldson, Haris Vuckic and Kazenga LuaLua are also vying for starts, while Brad Inman and Northern Ireland international Shane Ferguson were added to the squad late last night.

Hughton said: “I’ve left a few out of the squad.

“It’ll be a mixed side tonight, and there’ll certainly be opportunities for some of the young players.

“Ideally, we’d like to play them with some experienced players, and it’s a balance between putting ourselves in the best position to win the game, and giving some players some rest.